King-Size Reign Ends

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Mars Inc., the famous candy company, has decided to stop producing king size Snickers bars. Not only that, but they are replacing those giant bars with a 2-in-1 package that contains two smaller Snickers bars. The 2toGo package is resealable, which encourages consumers to eat the candy in two separate sittings, rather than all at once.

Why Switch Gears?

Mars asserts that the company’s concern about the obesity epidemic that is spreading through America prompted the change. They maintain that by reducing the calories in their snack foods and making it easier to control portion sizes, they will help fight obesity in this country. Mars is also including more product information on the front of packages which includes calories per pack, total fat, saturated fat and sugars. To see the new label, visit marshealthyliving.com.

Candy on the Chopping Block

Getting rid of giant Snickers bars isn’t the only action that Mars is taking in order to fight obesity. The company is also planning to make only candies that have 250 calories or less per serving by the end of 2013. What does this mean for the candies that currently have way more calories? Well, it looks like some serious size reductions are on the horizon.

Smart Substitutions

While Mars hopes to make it easier to have your chocolate and eat smaller portions too, there are lots of other ways that you can reduce calories and still satisfy a craving.Try:

• Dip peeled, sliced fruit (oranges, strawberries, apples, whatever works for you) into a bit of melted chocolate.
• Toss sliced strawberries with a pinch of sugar and a dash of cocoa powder.
• Dip fruit in yogurt and shaved chocolate.

Minis are clearly the way to go. These pre-portioned tiny bars are less than 100 calories each. The trick, though, is to eat just one. Most come in a large bag so you could end up eating thousands of extra calories in a week from chocolate treats.

Another option is to enjoy ONE regular size bar every month as a treat for consistent physical activity.

FMI see mars.com